Bowling Green State University FAQ

What is crowdfunding?

Crowdfunding is a fundraising tool designed to fund a project or venture through raising smaller amounts of money from a large number of people, via the Internet. Crowdfunding is driven through personal connections and outreach.

How is crowdfunding used at BGSU?

Crowdfunding at BGSU is used in a variety of capacities, including, but not limited to, funding for research projects, scholarships, specialized equipment, service projects, student organization trips, athletic department projects and more.

Who can create a Falcon Funded project?

Any of BGSU’s colleges, departments, divisions, student groups and faculty are eligible to apply for a Falcon Funded project. All projects are considered on an individual basis by the Falcon Funded Review Committee and must be aligned with University priorities as detailed in BGSU's strategic plan.

What do I need to do to submit an application?

Click the Submit Application tab at the top of this screen.

What should my funding goal be?

It is suggested campaigns fall in the $1,000-$8,000 funding level. The Falcon Funded Review Committee is also willing to consider projects that fall outside of those parameters. Please keep in mind that funding goals should be realistic.

How long is the Falcon Funded process?

Once an application is submitted, the approval process takes around three weeks. The "quiet phase" of the campaign, when project creators work with University Advancement to organize their campaign and solicit lead gifts, lasts between four and six weeks. The "active phase", when the crowdfunding campaign is live on the Falcon Funded website, lasts 30 days.

What makes a successful crowdfunding campaign?

- A project team of 2 – 5 individuals to work with University Advancement to set up the project.

- Projects with 20 or more individuals who will solicit donations and share the project with their personal and professional networks.

- Campaigns that gain 30 percent of their funding goal in the first week of the "active phase" are more likely to succeed.

- Project teams that stay motivated during the entire 30 days of the active phase.

Is my contribution tax deductible?

Yes. All gifts received through this platform are considered donations to Bowling Green State University and are thus tax-deductible. Donors will receive a tax receipt following gift processing. Any perks or gifts associated with your donation are not tax-deductible and will be itemized in your receipt from BGSU’s gift processing department.

When will my credit card be charged?

Your credit card is charged immediately upon finalizing your gift on the site.

Where is my donation going?

100 percent of your donation will go directly to the project. All processing fees associated with your donation are absorbed by the BGSU Foundation, Inc. and will not be taken from the project fund.

What if my project does not meet its funding goal?

If the campaign falls short of its funding goal, the funds raised will still be released to the project fund. In the event that a project cannot be undertaken because of the shortfall, the money raised will be retained by the sponsoring college or unit for use on a project with similar goals.

What if a project is overfunded?

Campaign project leaders are asked to prepare a “stretch goal” strategy for their stated funding goal. In the event that a project receives funding beyond its goal, project leaders will have identified how the money will be used to expand or enhance the project. This will be communicated through the project’s home page.

Does my gift count as an annual gift?

Yes, your gift to this project will count as an annual gift to BGSU.

Who should I contact with questions about my contribution?

How do I take advantage of my employer's matching gifts program?

Call (419) 372-7700 or e-mail falconfunded@bgsu.edu to get the fund number for the project you are supporting. Include the fund number when you file for the matching gift, and the matching gift will be added to the project total when it is received.Matching gifts must be requested by the individual who made the donation through their employer